Caterpillars of Eastern Forests

Io Moth (Automeris io)

Pale green with tufts of greenish stinging spines over body. Abdominal segments with conspicuous red spiracular stripe, bordered below by white. Gregarious in early instars, then solitary. Spines inflict painful sting followed by swelling. Food: wide range of hardwoods, even corn and other grasses. Caterpillar: all months; up to 4 generations in southern Florida and Texas, 1 in North.

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